Tuesday, June 30, 2026
Wager-Tracker: All Sports Betting Log
Home Blog Page 21

MLB Game Preview: Philadelphia Phillies (44-36) vs. Washington Nationals (41-40)

0

Nationals Park, Washington, D.C.

First Pitch: 6:45 PM ET / 3:45 PM PT

Probable Pitchers: LHP Cristopher Sánchez (PHI) vs. RHP Cade Cavalli (WSH)

Venue

Nationals Park — Washington, D.C.

Capacity: ~41,000

Dimensions: 337 ft LF, 402 ft CF, 335 ft RF

Park Factors:

Slightly favors left‑handed power

Plays neutral overall

Summer humidity boosts carry to the gaps

Tactical Impact: Sánchez’s ground‑ball profile plays well here; Cavalli must avoid middle‑in misses to PHI’s left‑handed bats.

Weather Updates (Washington, D.C.)

Temperature: 84°F (29°C)

Humidity: 66%

Wind: 7 mph S (blowing out to RF)

Precipitation: 15% chance Impact: Slight boost to left‑handed pull hitters; warm, humid air favors extra‑base hits.

Injury Report

Philadelphia Phillies

Bryce Harper (1B)Probable, minor elbow soreness

Trea Turner (SS)Out, hamstring strain

Brandon Marsh (OF)Questionable, knee tightness

Orion Kerkering (RHP)Out, forearm strain Impact: Turner’s absence hurts PHI’s top‑of‑order speed; bullpen depth remains thin without Kerkering.

Washington Nationals

CJ Abrams (SS)Probable, wrist soreness

Lane Thomas (OF)Questionable, quad tightness

Josiah Gray (RHP)Out, elbow rehab

Hunter Harvey (RHP)Probable, shoulder fatigue Impact: Thomas’ status is key — Washington’s offense is far less dynamic without him.

Team Records & Season Context

Philadelphia Phillies (44–36)

Road Record: 20–19

Run Differential: +47

Identity: Strong rotation, power‑driven offense, elite infield defense

Notable: Phillies have won 4 of their last 6 and remain in the NL East chase

Washington Nationals (41–40)

Home Record: 22–19

Run Differential: -12

Identity: Speed‑oriented offense, improving young rotation, inconsistent bullpen

Notable: Nationals have won 5 of their last 7 and are pushing toward Wild Card contention

Recent Team Form

Phillies (Last 5 Games)

W 5–3 vs MIA

L 2–4 vs MIA

W 7–2 vs MIA

W 6–4 vs WSH

L 3–5 vs WSH Trend: Offense heating up; bullpen remains volatile

Nationals (Last 5 Games)

W 5–3 vs PHI

L 4–6 vs PHI

W 7–4 vs ATL

W 3–2 vs ATL

L 1–5 vs ATL Trend: Pitching staff performing above expectations; offense inconsistent but opportunistic

Probable Pitcher Matchup

PHI — LHP Cristopher Sánchez

2026 Stats: 3.41 ERA, 1.22 WHIP, 8.3 K/9

Strengths:

Heavy sinker

Generates ground balls

Excellent vs. right‑handed hitters

Weaknesses:

Occasional command lapses

Vulnerable when behind in counts Matchup Outlook: Washington’s right‑handed core (Meneses, Ruiz, Thomas if active) will test him early.

WSH — RHP Cade Cavalli

2026 Stats: 4.18 ERA, 1.31 WHIP, 9.4 K/9

Strengths:

Power fastball

Sharp curveball

Strong strikeout ability

Weaknesses:

High walk rate

Prone to HRs vs. left‑handed hitters Matchup Outlook: Harper, Schwarber, and Stott present major matchup problems.

Key Player Matchups

1. Bryce Harper vs. Cade Cavalli

Harper crushes high‑velocity fastballs

Cavalli must work edges early Advantage: Phillies

2. CJ Abrams vs. Cristopher Sánchez

Abrams’ speed vs. Sánchez’s ground‑ball profile

Key matchup for Washington’s run‑creation Advantage: Even

3. Kyle Schwarber vs. Cavalli

Schwarber’s pull power vs. Cavalli’s HR tendencies Advantage: Phillies

4. Keibert Ruiz vs. Sánchez

Ruiz excels vs. left‑handed pitching Advantage: Nationals

5. Phillies Bullpen vs. Nationals Late‑Game Offense

PHI bullpen ERA in June: 4.62

WSH late‑inning OPS: .701 Advantage: Nationals (slightly)

Series History

2025 Season: Phillies won 10–3

2026 Season: Series tied 1–1

Phillies have won 12 of the last 16 meetings

Nationals Park has been favorable to PHI (7–3 in last 10)

Betting Trends

Philadelphia

4 of last 6: Won ML

5 of last 7: Over

6 straight: Scored 4+ runs

Washington

5 of last 7: Won ML

4 of last 6: Under

3 straight: Allowed 3 runs or fewer

Game Odds

Philadelphia Phillies                      – 161

Washington Nationals                   8.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Wednesday, June 24, 2026

MLB Game Preview: Texas Rangers (38-42) vs. Toronto Blue Jays (39-41)

0

Rogers Centre, Toronto, Ontario

First Pitch: 7:07 PM ET / 4:07 PM PT

Probable Pitchers: LHP MacKenzie Gore (TEX) vs. RHP Kevin Gausman (TOR)

Venue

Rogers Centre — Toronto, ON

Capacity: ~49,000

Surface: Artificial turf

Park Factors:

Boosts right‑handed power

Plays neutral for left‑handed hitters

Outfield gaps reward line‑drive hitters

Tactical Impact: Gore’s fly‑ball tendencies can be risky here; Gausman’s splitter plays well on turf.

Weather Updates (Toronto, ON)

(Roof likely closed — minimal gameplay impact)

Temperature: 74°F (23°C)

Humidity: 60%

Wind: 7 mph W

Impact: If roof is open, slight boost to balls hit to left field.

Injury Report

Texas Rangers

Corey Seager (SS)Probable, minor wrist soreness

Evan Carter (OF)Out, hamstring strain

Josh Jung (3B)Out, hand fracture

Dane Dunning (RHP)Questionable, shoulder fatigue Impact: Jung and Carter’s absences weaken Texas’ power and depth; Seager’s health is crucial for run production.

Toronto Blue Jays

Bo Bichette (SS)Probable, quad tightness

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (1B)Probable, minor back stiffness

Kevin Kiermaier (OF)Out, hip injury

Jordan Romano (RHP)Out, elbow inflammation Impact: Romano’s absence affects late‑inning stability; Guerrero’s availability is key for Toronto’s middle‑order punch.

Team Records & Season Context

Texas Rangers (38–42)

Road Record: 17–23

Run Differential: -18

Identity: Streaky offense, inconsistent bullpen, strong top‑end rotation

Notable: Texas has lost 6 of its last 9 and is trying to stay afloat in the AL Wild Card race

Toronto Blue Jays (39–41)

Home Record: 21–18

Run Differential: -6

Identity: Contact‑oriented lineup, strong starting pitching, inconsistent bullpen

Notable: Toronto has won 4 of its last 6 and is pushing toward .500

Recent Team Form

Texas (Last 5 Games)

L 3–5 vs HOU

W 6–4 vs HOU

L 2–7 vs HOU

L 1–4 vs SEA

W 5–3 vs SEA Trend: Offense inconsistent; pitching staff allowing too many early runs

Toronto (Last 5 Games)

W 7–3 vs BOS

W 6–2 vs BOS

L 4–5 vs BOS

W 5–1 vs TB

L 3–4 vs TB Trend: Pitching stabilizing; lineup showing signs of life

Probable Pitcher Matchup

TEX — LHP MacKenzie Gore

2026 Stats: 4.12 ERA, 1.29 WHIP, 10.1 K/9

Strengths:

High‑octane fastball

Strong strikeout ability

Effective vs. left‑handed hitters

Weaknesses:

Occasional command issues

Prone to big innings when behind in counts Matchup Outlook: Toronto’s right‑handed core (Guerrero, Springer, Varsho) is a tough assignment.

TOR — RHP Kevin Gausman

2026 Stats: 3.54 ERA, 1.17 WHIP, 10.4 K/9

Strengths:

Elite splitter

High strikeout rate

Excellent command

Weaknesses:

Occasional HR issues vs. left‑handed pull hitters Matchup Outlook: Texas’ lefties (Seager, Lowe, Langford) must avoid chasing the splitter.

Key Player Matchups

1. Corey Seager vs. Kevin Gausman

Seager handles velocity well but must avoid chasing the splitter Advantage: Even

2. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. vs. MacKenzie Gore

Guerrero crushes left‑handed fastballs

Gore must work edges early Advantage: Toronto

3. Marcus Semien vs. Gausman

Semien has struggled vs. elite splitters historically Advantage: Toronto

4. Adolis García vs. Toronto Bullpen

García’s power vs. a Romano‑less bullpen Advantage: Texas (late innings)

5. George Springer vs. Gore

Springer’s ability to jump on first‑pitch fastballs is key Advantage: Toronto

Series History

2025 Season: Rangers won 4–3

2026 Season: First meeting

Last 10 meetings: Texas leads 6–4

Rogers Centre has been neutral for Texas (5–5 in last 10)

Betting Trends

Texas

6 of last 9: Lost ML

5 of last 7: Under

4 straight: Scored 4 runs or fewer

Toronto

4 of last 6: Won ML

5 of last 7: Under

6 straight: Allowed 4 runs or fewer

Game Odds

Texas Rangers                    8

Toronto Blue Jays             – 148

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Wednesday, June 24, 2026

MLB Game Preview: Kansas City Royals (34-47) vs. Tampa Bay Rays (44-33)

0

Tropicana Field, St. Petersburg, Florida

First Pitch: 6:50 PM ET / 3:50 PM PT

Probable Pitchers: RHP Seth Lugo (KC) vs. RHP Casey Legumina (TB)

Venue

Tropicana Field — St. Petersburg, FL

Capacity: ~25,000

Surface: Artificial turf

Park Factors:

Suppresses home runs

Boosts doubles and triples due to quirky outfield angles

Favors pitchers who keep the ball on the ground

Tactical Impact: KC’s contact‑heavy approach plays better here than in most parks; TB’s pitching depth is always enhanced indoors.

Weather Updates (St. Petersburg, FL)

(Indoor game — minimal gameplay impact)

Temperature: 89°F (32°C)

Humidity: 71%

Wind: 10 mph SE

Impact: None inside Tropicana Field; travel conditions normal.

Injury Report

Kansas City Royals

Bobby Witt Jr. (SS)Probable, minor hamstring tightness

Vinnie Pasquantino (1B)Out, shoulder rehab

MJ Melendez (OF)Questionable, wrist soreness

Michael Wacha (RHP)Out, forearm strain Impact: Pasquantino’s absence hurts KC’s left‑handed power; Melendez’s status affects lineup depth.

Tampa Bay Rays

Yandy Díaz (1B)Probable, quad tightness

Josh Lowe (OF)Out, oblique strain

Shane McClanahan (LHP)Out, Tommy John rehab

Pete Fairbanks (RHP)Questionable, shoulder fatigue Impact: Rays’ bullpen depth is stretched; Díaz’s presence is crucial for lineup stability.

Team Records & Season Context

Kansas City Royals (34–47)

Road Record: 14–26

Run Differential: -42

Identity: Contact‑oriented lineup, inconsistent pitching, improving defense

Notable: KC has lost 7 of its last 10 and is slipping in the AL Central race

Tampa Bay Rays (44–33)

Home Record: 25–14

Run Differential: +28

Identity: Deep bullpen, strong situational hitting, elite defensive positioning

Notable: Rays have won 5 of their last 7 and remain in the AL Wild Card mix

Recent Team Form

Royals (Last 5 Games)

L 3–6 vs TB

L 2–5 vs TB

W 7–4 vs TEX

L 1–4 vs TEX

L 3–8 vs TEX Trend: Offense cooling; pitching staff allowing too many early runs

Rays (Last 5 Games)

W 6–3 vs KC

W 5–2 vs KC

L 4–7 vs BAL

W 3–2 vs BAL

W 5–1 vs BAL Trend: Pitching stabilizing; bullpen performing well despite injuries

Probable Pitcher Matchup

KC — RHP Seth Lugo

2026 Stats: 3.88 ERA, 1.24 WHIP, 7.9 K/9

Strengths:

Curveball depth

Strong command

Keeps ball in the yard

Weaknesses:

Can struggle vs. left‑handed hitters

Occasional third‑time‑through‑order issues Matchup Outlook: Rays’ lefties (Arozarena, Siri, Walls) could challenge him early.

TB — RHP Casey Legumina

2026 Stats: 4.21 ERA, 1.31 WHIP, 8.7 K/9

Strengths:

Swing‑and‑miss slider

Good strikeout ability

Weaknesses:

High walk rate

Vulnerable to fastball damage when behind in counts Matchup Outlook: KC’s contact‑heavy lineup may force him into long innings.

Key Player Matchups

1. Bobby Witt Jr. vs. Casey Legumina

Witt’s elite bat speed vs. Legumina’s slider

Witt thrives vs. pitchers with command issues Advantage: KC

2. Randy Arozarena vs. Seth Lugo

Arozarena hits curveballs well

Lugo must avoid middle‑in mistakes Advantage: TB

3. Salvador Perez vs. Rays Bullpen

Perez’s power vs. TB’s injury‑thinned relief corps Advantage: Even

4. Yandy Díaz vs. KC Pitching

Díaz’s elite OBP skills vs. KC’s inconsistent command Advantage: TB

Series History

2025 Season: Rays won 5–2

2026 Season: Rays lead 2–0

Rays have won 9 of the last 12 meetings

Tropicana Field has been a house of horrors for KC (3–10 in last 13)

Betting Trends

Kansas City

7 of last 10: Lost ML

6 of last 8: Under

5 straight: Scored 4 runs or fewer

Tampa Bay

5 of last 7: Won ML

4 of last 6: Under

6 straight: Allowed 4 runs or fewer

GAME ODDS

Kansas City Royals           8

Tampa Bay Rays                – 139

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Wednesday, June 24, 2026

MLB Game Preview: New York Yankees (48-31) vs. Boston Red Sox (32-46)

0

Fenway Park, Boston, Massachusetts

First Pitch: 7:10 PM ET / 4:10 PM PT

Probable Pitchers: RHP Brendan Schlittler (NYY) vs. RHP Grant Early (BOS)

Venue

Fenway Park — Boston, MA

Opened: 1912

Capacity: ~37,755

Dimensions: 310 ft to LF, 379 ft to LCF, 420 ft to CF, 302 ft to RF

Tactical Impact:

Right‑handed hitters love the Green Monster

Pitchers who induce ground balls fare better

Outfield defense and corner positioning are critical

Weather Updates (Boston, MA)

Temperature: 78°F (26°C)

Wind: 9 mph SW (blowing toward LF)

Humidity: 63%

Precipitation: 10% chance Impact: Slight boost to right‑handed power hitters; warm air favors carry to the Monster.

Injury Report

New York Yankees

Aaron Judge (OF)Probable, minor hip tightness

Anthony Rizzo (1B)Out, back inflammation

Gleyber Torres (2B)Questionable, wrist soreness

Jonathan Loáisiga (RHP)Out, elbow rehab Impact: Rizzo’s absence weakens NYY’s left‑handed balance; Torres’ status affects infield defense and lineup depth.

Boston Red Sox

Triston Casas (1B)Out, shoulder surgery

Rafael Devers (3B)Probable, quad tightness

Jarren Duran (OF)Questionable, hamstring strain

Kenley Jansen (RHP)Out, lat strain Impact: Boston’s bullpen is thin without Jansen; Devers’ health is essential for run production.

Team Records & Season Context

New York Yankees (48–31)

Road Record: 22–17

Run Differential: +61

Identity: Power‑driven offense, deep bullpen, strong rotation depth

Notable: Yankees have won 6 of their last 8 and are chasing Baltimore for the AL East lead

Boston Red Sox (32–46)

Home Record: 15–23

Run Differential: -54

Identity: Inconsistent pitching, streaky offense, defensive lapses

Notable: Boston has lost 8 of its last 11 and sits last in the AL East

Recent Team Form

Yankees (Last 5 Games)

W 6–3 vs KC

W 4–2 vs KC

L 2–5 vs KC

W 7–4 vs TB

W 5–1 vs TB Trend: Rotation stabilizing; bullpen dominant; offense producing timely power

Red Sox (Last 5 Games)

L 3–7 vs TOR

L 2–6 vs TOR

W 5–4 vs TOR

L 1–8 vs CLE

L 4–9 vs CLE Trend: Pitching struggling; offense inconsistent; bullpen overworked

Probable Pitcher Matchup

NYY — RHP Brendan Schlittler

2026 Stats: 3.62 ERA, 1.19 WHIP, 8.4 K/9

Strengths:

Heavy sinker

Generates ground balls

Effective vs. right‑handed hitters

Weaknesses:

Occasional command lapses

Vulnerable to left‑handed pull hitters at Fenway Matchup Outlook: Needs to keep the ball down vs. Devers and Yoshida.

BOS — RHP Grant Early

2026 Stats: 5.41 ERA, 1.47 WHIP, 9.1 K/9

Strengths:

Swing‑and‑miss stuff

Good curveball

Weaknesses:

High walk rate

Struggles with HRs (1.4 HR/9) Matchup Outlook: Dangerous assignment vs. a power‑heavy Yankees lineup.

Key Player Matchups

1. Aaron Judge vs. Grant Early

Judge has crushed curveball‑heavy pitchers

Early’s HR issues are a major concern Advantage: Yankees

2. Rafael Devers vs. Brendan Schlittler

Devers feasts on sinkers left up in the zone

Schlittler must avoid middle‑in Advantage: Even

3. Juan Soto vs. Boston Bullpen

Boston’s middle relief has a 5.12 ERA in June

Soto’s OBP pressure is a nightmare for thin bullpens Advantage: Yankees

4. Yankees Bullpen vs. Red Sox Late‑Game Offense

NYY bullpen ERA: 2.91

BOS late‑inning OPS: .642 Advantage: Yankees

Series History

2025 Season: Yankees won 10–9

2026 Season: Yankees lead 3–1

Yankees have won 6 of the last 8 at Fenway

Average margin in last 10 meetings: NYY +2.3 runs

Betting Trends

New York

7 of last 10: Won ML

5 of last 7: Over

6 straight: Scored 4+ runs

Boston

8 of last 11: Lost ML

6 of last 8: Over

5 straight: Allowed 5+ runs

GAME ODDS

New York Yankees           – 154

Boston Red Sox                 8

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Wednesday, June 24, 2026

CFL Injury Reports: Week 4

0

TORONTO – Week 4’s injury reports for all teams will be housed here and will be updated daily.

EDMONTON ELKS AT WINNIPEG BLUE BOMBERS

Thursday, June 25 | 8:30 p.m. ET | Princess Auto Stadium

EDMONTON ELKSPRACTICE DAY
Player namePositionInjurySUNMONTUESGame Status
Nick AndersonLBHamstringDNPDNPOut
Tomari FoxDLElbowLimitedFullAvailable
Luke Burton-KrahnWRAchillesDNPDNPOut
Joe RobustelliWRHamstringDNPDNPOut
WINNIPEG BLUE BOMBERSPRACTICE DAY
Player namePositionInjurySUNMONTUESGame Status
Tyler ElsburyOLNFR – Personal MatterFullFullFullAvailable
Micah VanterpoolOLKneeFullFullFullAvailable
Jaylen SmithLBHeadFullFullFullQuestionable
Brody ClarkLBThighDNPDNPDNPDoubtful
Ontaria WilsonWRKneeDNPFullFullQuestionable
Nic DemskiWRAnkleDNPFullFullQuestionable

TORONTO ARGONAUTS AT SASKATCHEWAN ROUGHRIDERS

Friday, June 26 | 9:00 p.m. ET | Mosaic Stadium

TORONTO ARGONAUTSPRACTICE DAY
Player namePositionInjuryMONTUESWEDGame Status
DeWayne HendrixDLHamstringLimitedLimitedOut
Ethan JohnDBAnkleDNPDNPOut
Kevin MitalWRCalfLimitedFullAvailable
Robert PriesterDBAchillesDNPDNPOut

The Toronto Argonauts did not practice on Monday, June 22, 2026.

SASKATCHEWAN ROUGHRIDERSPRACTICE DAY
Player namePositionInjuryTUESWEDGame Status
Jayden DalkeLBHandDNPDNPOut
Dhel Duncan-BusbyWRShoulderDNPDNPOut
Juwuane HughesDBAnkleDNPDNPOut
KeeSean JohnsonWRKneeLimitedFullAvailable
Nelson LokomboDBAnkleDNPDNPOut
Benoit MarionDLShoulderLimitedLimitedOut
A.J. OuelletteRBAnkleDNPDNPDoubtful
James VaughtersDLKneeDNPFullAvailabile

The Saskatchewan Roughriders did not practice on Monday, June 22, 2026.

CALGARY STAMPEDERS AT BC LIONS

Saturday, June 27 | 7:00 p.m. ET | Apple Bowl Stadium

CALGARY STAMPEDERSPRACTICE DAY
Player namePositionInjuryTUESWEDTHURSGame Status
Ludovick ChoquetteRBAnkleDNPFullFullAvailable
Jaydon GrantDBAnkleDNPFullAvailable
Adrian GreeneDBKneeDNPDNPDNPOut
Anton HaieDBHamstringFullFullFullAvailable
Christy NkanuOLElbowDNPFullFullAvailable
Folarin OrimoladeDLAchillesFullFullFullAvailable
Jalen PhilpotWRIllnessDNPFullFullAvailable
Eric RascoeLBBackDNPDNPDNPOut
BC LIONSPRACTICE DAY
Player namePositionInjuryTUESWEDTHURSGame Status
Joshua DonovanOLAnkleFullFullFullAvailable
Keon Hatcher Sr.WRThighLimitedLimitedLimitedQuestionable
T.J. LeeDBCalfFullLimitedLimitedQuestionable
Justin McInnisWRAnkleDNPDNPDNPQuestionable
Kieran PoissantWRHipDNPDNPDNPQuestionable
Patrice ReneDBLegDNPDNPDNPOut
Brandon YatesOLHipDNPDNPDNPQuestionable

OTTAWA REDBLACKS AT MONTREAL ALOUETTES

Sunday, June 28 | 7:00 p.m. ET | Percival Molson Memorial Stadium

OTTAWA REDBLACKSPRACTICE DAY
Player namePositionInjuryWEDTHURSFRIGame Status
Alonzo AddaeDBHeadLimitedLimited
Brian Cole IILBHeadLimitedLimited
Lucas CormierLBObliqueLimitedLimited
Amari HendersonDBKneeFullFull
Eugene LewisWRShoulderLimitedLimited
Charlie ParksDLFootFullFull
Sam SchneeWRAnkleFullFull
Bennett WilliamsDBHeadLimitedFull
MONTREAL ALOUETTESPRACTICE DAY
Player namePositionInjuryWEDTHURSFRIGame Status
Devonte DedmonWRHamstringLimitedLimited
Hakeem HarrisWRHamstringLimitedLimited
Stevie Scott IIIRBHamstringFullFull
Tyrice BeveretteLBNeckFullFull
Lorenzo BurnsDBHeadDNPDNP
Kabion EntoDBHamstringDNPDNP
Tyson PhilpotWRFootLimited
Najee MurrayDBFootLimited
Wesley SuttonDBHipLimited

2026 NBA Draft Notes – Second Round

0

SECOND ROUND

• Ohio State guard Bruce Thornton, who was selected by the New York Knicks with the 31st pick, is the Buckeyes’ all‑time leading scorer (2,164 points), breaking Dennis Hopson’s 39-year-old record in 2026. (As part of a planned trade, the Knicks will send the draft rights to Thornton to the Houston Rockets.)

• BYU guard Richie Saunders, who was selected by the Memphis Grizzlies with the 32nd pick, became the school’s second selection in the 2026 NBA Draft. It marks the first time the Cougars have had multiple picks in the same draft (AJ Dybantsa, No. 1) since the NBA Draft adopted its current two-round format in 1989.

• Duke guard Isaiah Evans, who was selected by the Brooklyn Nets with the 33rd pick, became the program’s 73rd draft pick since the NBA Draft moved to a two-round format in 1989, the most of any school. (As part of a planned trade, the Nets will send the draft rights to Evans to the Minnesota Timberwolves.)

• Arkansas guard Meleek Thomas, who was selected by the Sacramento Kings with the 34th pick, shot 48.7% from three- point range in SEC games in 2025-26, an Arkansas conference play record. (As part of a planned trade, the Kings will send the draft rights to Thomas to the Cleveland Cavaliers.

• Arkansas forward Trevon Brazile, who was selected by the Denver Nuggets with the 35th pick, joined Darius Acuff Jr. (No. 7) and Meleek Thomas (No. 34) as Razorbacks selected in the 2026 NBA Draft, marking the third time since the NBA Draft moved to a two-round format in 1989 that Arkansas has produced three selections in the same draft (1992, 2023 and 2026).

• Baba Miller (Spain; University of Cincinnati) was selected 36th overall by the LA Clippers, marking the first time since 2009 and second time ever that three players from Spain were selected in the same NBA Draft.

• Miller, the school’s first draft pick since Jacob Evans was selected 28th overall in the 2018 NBA Draft, was the first Bearcat to lead the team in points (13.0 ppg), rebounds (10.3 rpg) and assists (3.7 apg) since Oscar Robertson in 1959-60.

• At 17 years old, Miller made his EuroLeague debut for Real Madrid, capping a youth career that began at age 12. Born in Mallorca and developed in Madrid, he won the 2020-21 EuroLeague Next Generation Tournament before averaging 11.3 points and 5.3 rebounds for Real Madrid’s B team in 2021-22.

• Louisville guard Ryan Conwell, who was selected by the Oklahoma City Thunder with the 37th pick, joined Mikel Brown Jr. (No. 6) to give the Cardinals multiple selections in the draft for the first time since 2015. (As part of a planned trade, the Thunder will send the draft rights to Conwell to the Miami Heat.)

• Purdue guard Braden Smith, who was selected by the Chicago Bulls with the 38th pick, finished his career as the NCAA Division I all-time leader in assists (1,103) and is the only player in Division I history to record at least 1,500 career points, 1,000 assists and 500 rebounds. (As part of a planned trade, the Bulls will send the draft rights to Smith to the Indiana Pacers.)

• Jack Kayil (Germany; Alba Berlin) was selected 39th overall by the Houston Rockets , marking the first time since 2024 that two players from Germany were selected in the same NBA Draft. (As part of a planned trade, the Rockets will send the draft rights to Kayil to the New York Knicks.)

• Kayil participated in the 2024 Basketball Without Borders Global camp at NBA All-Star in Indianapolis, Indiana and the 2023 Basketball Without Borders Europe camp in Wroclaw, Poland, where he was named a camp All-Star.

• Kayil joined Franz Wagner and Dennis Schröder this past season as one of the youngest players ever to win the German Bundesliga’s Best Young Player award, putting him in rare company. The Berlin native came up through Alba Berlin’s youth academy before signing with SC Rasta Vechta in 2023, where he won a second straight German U-19 title and took MVP honors at the final tournament.

• St. John’s forward Dillon Mitchell, who was selected by the Boston Celtics with the 40th pick, joined Zuby Ejiofor (No. 23) as Red Storm selections in the 2026 NBA Draft, marking the first time since 2000 that St. John’s has had multiple players selected in the same draft.

• Duke forward Maliq Brown, who was selected by the San Antonio Spurs with the 44th pick, was the 2025‑26 ACC Defensive Player of the Year and ACC Sixth Man of the Year in his second season at Duke.

• Houston guard Emanuel Sharp, who was selected by the Sacramento Kings with the 45th pick, became the Cougars’ third pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, marking just the second time in the common draft era (since 1966) that Houston has produced three selections (Sharp, Kingston Flemings and Chris Cenac Jr.) in the same draft.

• Felix Okpara (Nigeria; University of Tennessee) was selected 46th overall by the Orlando Magic. Okpara earned 2025-26 SEC All-Defensive Team honors as a senior in his second season at Tennessee. He ranks second in program history in blocks per game at 1.6 and is one of four Tennessee players to record multiple 50-block seasons. (As part of a planned trade, the Magic will send the draft rights to Okpara to the Washington Wizards.)

• Tobi Lawal (UK; Virginia Tech) was selected 48th overall by the Dallas Mavericks. Lawal did not pick up a basketball until he was 16, growing up in London and starring for the City of London Academy before crossing the Atlantic.

• Lawal started his college career at VCU, then transferred to Virginia Tech, where as a senior he averaged 12.3 points, 8.5 rebounds and 1.1 blocks in 29.1 minutes per game.

• Arizona guard Jaden Bradley, who was selected by the Toronto Raptors with the 50th pick, was the 2025-26 Big 12 Player of the Year (coaches) and a 2025-26 All-America Third Team selection (NABC, USBWA, Sporting News).

• South Florida forward Izaiyah Nelson, who was selected by the Washington Wizards with the 51st pick, became just the third Bulls player selected in the NBA Draft since the league moved to a two-round format in 1989, joining Solomon Jones (2006) and Dominique Jones (2010).

• Henri Veesaar (Estonia, University of North Carolina) was selected 52nd overall by the LA Clippers, marking the first time that a player from Estonia was drafted since 1996, when Martin Muursepp was selected 25th overall. Veesaar made his senior debut for the Estonian national team at age 17, suiting up against Iceland in the summer of 2021 as a product of Real Madrid’s renowned youth academy.

• Ugonna Onyenso (Nigeria; University of Virginia) was selected 53rd overall by the Houston Rockets, marking the second time that two players from Nigeria were selected in the same NBA Draft. (As part of a planned trade, the Rockets will send the draft rights to Onyenso to the Detroit Pistons.)

• Onyenso spent three years at NBA Academy Africa in Saly, Senegal, making him the third NBA Academy Africa alumnus and 15th NBA Academy alumnus overall to be drafted into the NBA. At 17 years old, Onyenso became the youngest player ever to suit up for the Nigerian senior national team. The Owerri-born center first picked up basketball after a local coach pulled him away from soccer, then attended NBA Academy Africa before relocating to Putnam Science Academy in Connecticut.

• Vsevolod Ishchenko (Russia; Lokomotiv Kuban) was selected 56th overall by the Chicago Bulls, marking the second time ever that at least one player from Russia was selected in consecutive NBA Drafts (Egor Dёmin was picked eighth overall in 2025 by the Brooklyn Nets). (As part of a planned trade, the Bulls will send the draft rights to Ishchenko to the Dallas Mavericks via the Los Angeles Lakers.)

• Ishchenko made his name early in Russia’s youth basketball system, earning two VTB Youth April MVP awards while dominating the junior ranks for Lokomotiv Kuban-2, where he averaged 16.1 points, 7.0 rebounds, 4.3 assists and 1.6 steals in 30.0 minutes per game as an 18-year-old.

• Narcisse Ngoy (France; Auburn University) was selected 57th overall by the Atlanta Hawks. Ngoy previously played for Chorale Roanne Basket, Rouen Metropole Basket, and Poitiers Basket 86 in France and represented France at FIBA U-20 EuroBasket 2024. (As part of a planned trade, the Hawks will send the draft rights to Ngoy to the LA Clippers.)

• Malique Lewis (Trinidad and Tobago; South East Melbourne Phoenix) was selected 60th overall by the Washington Wizards. (As part of a planned trade, the Wizards will send the draft rights to Lewis to the Milwaukee Bucks.)

• As a 16-year-old, Lewis moved to Spain to play for Fuenlabrada in the Liga ACB. He joined the Mexico City Capitanes of the NBA G League for the 2023-24 season, where he played in 50 games before signing with the South East Melbourne Phoenix of Australia’s NBL as part of the league’s Next Stars program.

Week 4 in the CFL

0

Stats and storylines heading into this week’s action

GO LONG!

  • Collective QB rating at this point of the season: 109.4 vs. 97.4 in 2025
  • QB rating by depth:
    • 0-4 yards (including backfield) | 92
    • 5-9 yards | 102
    • 10-14 yards | 105
    • 15-19 yards | 147
    • 20-29 yards | 152
    • 30+ | 108
  • Average pass depth in 2025: 10.1 yards. In 2026 thus far: 11.4 – a 13 per cent increase and the highest ever recorded.
  • 50 per cent have recorded a 300-yard+ game

QUICK SLANTS

LEAGUE-WIDE

  • Average margin of victory: 7.4 points
  • 7.6 drives have reached the red zone – an increase of 33 per cent over 2025
  • Two-and-outs: 27 per cent – an all-time low
  • Seven of the Top-10 receivers are Canadian
  • Punts are being returned an average of 12.5 yards – the highest in league history – due in part to punts going an average of 48.5 yards, representing an increased challenge for cover teams.
  • In the red zone, QBs have completed 65.1 per cent of passes with 24 TDs.
  • QBs have a 3.08:1 TD to INT ratio – the highest ever.

EDM (2-0) at WPG (1-1)

  • Edmonton last started 3-0 in 2017, when they began 7-0.
  • Edmonton has a league-best 161.5 rushing yards per game, while Winnipeg has allowed the most 171 per game.
  • Edmonton owns the best net defence, allowing 389 yards per game.
  • Cody Fajardo has 99 TD passes and 49 rushing majors; with one more of each, he would become the ninth QB to reach 100 and 50. He is a career 4-9 against Winnipeg.
  • Last week, Justin Rankin notched his second career back-to-back games with 100-yard+ each. He is averaging 9.1 yards per carry, while adding 10 receptions for 145 yards.
  • Winnipeg has won the teams’ last eight matchups at Princess Auto Stadium, where the Elks last won on November 3, 2018.
  • Since 2018, Winnipeg is 16-3 off a bye.
  • Since 2019, the Bombers have lost two consecutive home games once.
  • Zach Collaros has 15 career wins as a starter against the Elks – the most of any opponent.
  • For his career, Brady Oliveria needs three catches for 200 and 95 receiving yards for 2,000.
  • Tommy Nield is coming off his first 100-yard+ game (111).
  • Tim White needs eight catches for 400 in his career.
  • Jake Ceresna has 49 career sacks.

TOR (1-1) at SSK (2-0)

  • Toronto has allowed the fewest rushing yards per game (48.0) and the second-lowest yards per rush (3.7), while forcing the most turnovers (8).
  • Chad Kelly’s 869 passing yards through two games are the most in team history, surpassing Ricky Ray’s 833 in 2017. Four players in league history have passed for 400-yards+ in three straight games; none were Argonauts. Kelly is a career 3-0 against Saskatchewan and 21-6 overall.
  • For the second week in a row, Kevin Mital set a new career-high in receiving yards. He is tied for the league lead with four big plays.
  • 2025 first-round pick Jeremiah Ojo recorded his first sack last week.
  • Toronto is first in net offence (501) and Saskatchewan is second (471.5).
  • In each of the past two seasons, Saskatchewan has started 4-0.
  • The Roughriders lead the league in time of possession (31:44).
  • The Riders have allowed one passing touchdown.
  • Trevor Harris has completed 73.6 per cent of his passes for 766 yards and six TDs. He has not thrown an interception in his past 189 attempts.
  • Kian Schaffer-Baker has 19 catches for 295 yards and a pair of TDs through two games.
  • Jameer Thurman needs five defensive tackles for 550 in his career.

CGY (0-2) at BC (0-2)

  • The game will be the first-ever in Kelowna.
  • The Stampeders last started 0-3 in 2002.
  • Calgary has averaged 150 rushing yards per game; BC Lions have allowed an average of 70 rushing yards.
  • Vernon Adams Jr. is a career 1-3 against BC.
  • Dedrick Mills has rushed for 100-yards+ in each game this season
  • Last season, BC swept the teams’ two-game series. The Lions have won three straight home games against the Stampeders and eight of the teams’ past 11 matchups overall.
  • The Lions last started 0-3 in 2019.
  • Nathan Rourke is 2-0 in head-to-head matchups against Adams; he is 4-0 against Calgary.
  • In his CFL debut, 2026 draft pick Nick Cenacle recorded nine catches, 120 yards and two TDs.

OTT (0-2) at MTL (2-1)

  • Ottawa has lost the teams’ past 11 matchups, dating back to October 10, 2022.
  • Nyles Morgan recorded his 7th career game with double-digit tackles last week. He needs six for 400 in his career.
  • Last week, Ayden Eberhardt notched his first 100+ yard game with Ottawa (129). He has led Ottawa in receiving in both games this season.
  • Kalil Pimpleton leads the league with 432 combined yards, including 223 from kickoff returns.
  • Brett Lauther has gone 7-for-7 on field goal attempts to start his time with Ottawa.
  • The Alouettes have gone two-and-out on a league-low 10 per cent of possessions.
  • Davis Alexander has not thrown an interception in his last 224 attempts. He has eclipsed 300-yards+ in each game this season.
  • Through three games, Tyson Philpot is averaging eight catches, one touchdown and 129.7 receiving yards.
  • Geoffrey Cantin-Arku is tied for the league lead with 18 defensive tackles.
  • Last week, Travis Theis had a career-high 91 yards, while adding 47 receiving yards.
  • José Maltos Díaz has made a team-record 25 field goals in a row, including 11-for-11 this season.

2026 NBA Draft Notes – First Round

0

FIRST ROUND

• The Washington Wizards made the first pick in the NBA Draft for the third time in the common draft era (since 1966), selecting BYU forward AJ Dybantsa. They previously selected Kwame Brown (2001) and John Wall (2010) with the first overall pick.

• Washington entered the 2026 NBA Draft Lottery with a 14.0% chance of receiving the No. 1 overall pick, tied for the best odds with the Brooklyn Nets and the Indiana Pacers. The Wizards became the first team since the flattened odds were introduced in 2019 to finish with the NBA’s worst record and receive the No. 1 pick.

• Dybantsa became BYU’s first No. 1 overall pick. The previous highest-drafted player from BYU was Shawn Bradley at No. 2 in 1993.

• Dybantsa scored 894 points in 2025-26, the third most by a freshman in a season in NCAA Division I history. He was a consensus All-America First Team selection and a finalist for the Naismith and Wooden National Player of the Year awards.

• The Utah Jazz made the second pick in the NBA Draft for the second time, selecting Kansas guard Darryn Peterson. The Jazz selected Darrell Griffith with the No. 2 pick in 1980.

• Peterson averaged 20.2 points per game as a freshman in 2025-26, breaking the Kansas freshman scor­ing record previously held by former No. 1 overall pick Andrew Wiggins.

• The Memphis Grizzlies made the third pick in the NBA Draft for the second time, selecting Duke forward Cameron Boozer. The Grizzlies selected Shareef Abdur‑Rahim with the No. 3 pick in 1996 ahead of their second season as an expansion team.

• Boozer, the consensus National Player of the Year and Freshman of the Year, became the first freshman or sophomore to average at least 20.0 points, 10.0 rebounds and 4.0 assists in a season since Larry Bird (1976-77).

• Boozer is the son of two-time NBA All-Star and 2001 Duke national champion Carlos Boozer.

• The Chicago Bulls made the fourth pick in the NBA Draft for the sixth time, selecting North Carolina forward Caleb Wilson. With the No. 4 pick, the Bulls selected Tom Boerwinkle in 1968, Kelvin Ransey in 1980, Marcus Fizer in 2000, Eddy Curry in 2001 and Patrick Williams in 2020.

• Wilson became North Carolina’s highest draft pick since Marvin Williams was selected with the No. 2 pick in the 2005 NBA Draft.

• Wilson is the second freshman to lead North Carolina in scoring (19.8 ppg), rebounding (9.4 rpg) and steals (1.4 spg), joining Tyler Hansbrough (2005-06).

• The LA Clippers made the fifth pick in the NBA Draft for the first time, selecting Illinois guard Keaton Wagler. It is their first top-five selection since 2009, when they drafted Blake Griffin No. 1 overall.

• Wagler became Illinois’ third top-10 pick in the common draft era, joining Kendall Gill (No. 5 in 1990) and Deron Williams (No. 3 in 2005).

• Wagler was rated as the No. 261 overall prospect in 247Sports’ composite rankings in the 2025 recruiting class.

• Louisville guard Mikel Brown Jr., who was selected by the Brooklyn Nets with the sixth pick, became the school’s highest-drafted player since Felton Spencer was selected sixth overall in the 1990 NBA Draft.

• Brown equaled Louisville single-game records with 45 points (tying Wes Unseld) and 10 three-pointers (matching Reyne Smith) against NC State on Feb. 9, 2026.

• Brown is the first top 10 pick from Louisville since 1996 (Samaki Walker, No. 9) and the school’s first first-round pick since Donovan Mitchell in 2017.

• The Sacramento Kings made the seventh pick in the NBA Draft for the ninth time, selecting Arkansas guard Darius Acuff Jr. With the No. 7 pick, the Kings selected Ron Behagen in 1973, Steve Johnson in 1981, Lionel Simmons in 1990, Walt Williams in 1992, Bobby Hurley in 1993, Jason Williams in 1998, Bismack Biyombo in 2011 and Ben McLemore in 2013.

• Houston guard Kingston Flemings, who was selected by the Atlanta Hawks with the eighth pick, is the school’s fourth first-round pick since the NBA went to a two-round draft in 1989. He joined Quentin Grimes (2021), Jarace Walker (2023) and Marcus Sasser (2023).

• The first eight picks in the 2026 NBA Draft were college freshmen, tying the 2025 NBA Draft for most freshmen selected to begin a draft.

• Nine of the first 10 picks in the 2026 NBA Draft were college freshmen, tying the record for most freshmen in the top 10, set in 2017 and matched in 2025.

• The Milwaukee Bucks selected Arizona guard Brayden Burries with the 10th pick, marking their first lottery selection since 2016, when they selected Thon Maker with the 10th pick.

• Michigan center Aday Mara of Spain was selected 12th overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder, becoming the highest-drafted player from Spain since Ricky Rubio was selected fifth overall in 2009.

• Mara participated in the 2023 Basketball Without Borders Global camp at NBA All-Star in Salt Lake City, Utah and 2022 Basketball Without Borders Europe camp in Milan, Italy. He was named an All-Star at both camps.

• Mara set a Michigan single-season record with 103 blocks in 2025-26.

• Michigan produced three first-round picks from its 2026 national championship team: Morez Johnson Jr. (No. 9, Dallas), Yaxel Lendeborg (No. 11, Golden State) and Aday Mara (No. 12, Oklahoma City). It marks just the second time in program history that the Wolverines have had three first-round picks in the same draft, joining the 1990 trio of Rumeal Robinson (No. 10), Loy Vaught (No. 13) and Terry Mills (No. 16).

• Johnson (No. 9), Lendeborg (No. 11) and Mara (No. 12) became just the second trio from the same school selected within a four-pick span in the modern draft era. The other was Duke’s 1999 trio of Trajan Langdon (No. 11), Corey Maggette (No. 13) and Will Avery (No. 14).

• Washington forward Hannes Steinbach of Germany, who was selected by the Charlotte Hornets with the 14th pick, is the school’s highest draft pick since Markelle Fultz was selected by the Philadelphia 76ers with the first pick in the 2017 NBA Draft.

• Steinbach became the highest-drafted player from Germany since Franz Wagner was selected eighth overall in 2021.

• Steinbach began playing for Würzburg in Germany in the 2024-25 season, during which he averaged 7.2 points and 5.7 rebounds while shooting 61.0 percent from the floor in 18.6 minutes over 31 games.

• Steinbach is the son of Burkhard Steinbach, who was a teammate of NBA legend Dirk Nowitzki’s with Würzburg in Germany.

• Iowa guard Bennett Stirtz, who was selected by the Memphis Grizzlies with the 16th pick, is the third first-round pick from Iowa since 1999, joining Keegan Murray (2022) and Kris Murray (2023). (As part of a planned trade the Grizzlies will send the draft rights to Stirtz to the Oklahoma City Thunder.)

• Stanford guard Ebuka Okorie, who was selected by the Oklahoma City Thunder with the 17th pick, became Stanford’s highest draft pick since Ziaire Williams (No. 10 in 2021). (As part of a planned trade, the Thunder will send the draft rights to Okorie to the Detroit Pistons.)

• Texas Tech guard Christian Anderson Jr., who was selected by the Charlotte Hornets with the 18th pick, is the fourth first-round pick from the program since the draft moved to a two-round format in 1989. He joins Tony Battie (1997), Zhaire Smith (2018) and Jarrett Culver (2019).

• Santa Clara forward Allen Graves, who was selected by the Toronto Raptors with the 19th pick, became the school’s fifth first-round pick in the common era, joining Bud Ogden (1969), Steve Nash (1996), Jalen Williams (2022) and Brandin Podziemski (2023).

• New Zealand Breakers forward Karim López of Mexico, who was selected by the Detroit Pistons with the 21st pick, is the first Mexican-born player to be selected in the first round of the NBA Draft. Prior to López, Eduardo Nájera (No. 38 in 2000) was the highest-drafted Mexican-born player in NBA history. (As part of a planned trade, the Pistons will send the draft rights to López to the Memphis Grizzlies.)

• López played the last two seasons with the New Zealand Breakers as part of the Australian NBL’s Next Stars program. López scored 358 points in 2025-26, the most ever by a draft-eligible player in the history of the NBL Next Stars program, surpassing previous lottery picks LaMelo Ball, Josh Giddey and Alex Sarr.

• Born in Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico, to a father who played for the Mexican national team, López grew up in Mexico before heading to Spain at the age of 14 to play professionally.

• St. John’s forward-center Zuby Ejiofor, who was selected by the Atlanta Hawks with the 23rd pick, is the school’s first draft pick since Sir’Dominic Pointer was selected in the second round (53rd pick) of the 2015 NBA Draft.

• Baylor guard Cameron Carr was selected by the New York Knicks with the 24th pick. Carr set a Baylor single-season sophomore scoring record with 642 points in 2025-26, ranking fifth in program history regardless of class. (As part of a planned trade, the Knicks will send the draft rights to Carr to the Los Angeles Lakers.)

• Sergio de Larrea (Spain; Valencia Basket) was selected by the Los Angeles Lakers with the 25th pick, marking the first time since 2021 and the fourth time overall that two players from Spain (Aday Mara, 12th) were selected in the first round of the same NBA Draft. (As part of a planned trade, the Lakers will send the draft rights to de Larrea to the New York Knicks.)

• de Larrea participated in the 2022 Basketball Without Borders Europe camp in Milan, Italy, where he was named a camp All-Star. He burst onto the scene by helping Spain capture gold at the 2023 FIBA U-19 World Cup.

• Connecticut center Tarris Reed Jr., who was selected by the Denver Nuggets with the 26th pick, is the first player to have 30+ points and 25+ rebounds in an NCAA Tournament game since Elvin Hayes in 1968. (As part of a planned trade, the Nuggets will send the draft rights to Reed to the San Antonio Spurs.)

• The Minnesota Timberwolves selected Iowa State forward Joshua Jefferson with the 28th pick. Jefferson tied for the NCAA Division I lead with two triple-doubles in 2025-26. (As part of a planned trade, the Timberwolves will send the draft rights to Jefferson to the Brooklyn Nets.)

• Connecticut forward Alex Karaban, who was selected by the Cleveland Cavaliers with the 29th pick, was a two-time NCAA national champion (2023, 2024) and one-time runner-up (2026) over four seasons at UConn. (As part of a planned traded, the Cavaliers will send the draft rights to Karaban to the Sacramento Kings.)

• Arizona forward Koa Peat, who was selected by the Dallas Mavericks with the 30th pick, became the second Big 12 freshman to score 30 or more points in his career debut, joining Michael Beasley (Kansas State, 2007). (As part of a planned trade, the Mavericks will send the draft rights to Peat to the Phoenix Suns.)

• The first 20 selections in the 2026 NBA Draft all played college basketball, marking the first time since 1994 that the first 20 picks came from the collegiate ranks.

WNBA Game Preview: Atlanta Dream (12-4) vs. Golden State Valkyries (10-7)

Chase Center, San Francisco, CA

Tip‑Off: 10:00 PM ET / 7:00 PM PT

Broadcast: ESPN / WNBA League Pass

VENUE: CHASE CENTER

Location: 1 Warriors Way, San Francisco, CA

Capacity: ~18,000

Court Profile: Fast‑paced environment with strong shooting sightlines

Home‑Court Edge: Valkyries are 6–3 at home, feeding off one of the league’s loudest new fanbases.

INJURY REPORT

Atlanta Dream

Rhyne Howard — ACTIVE

Tina Charles — ACTIVE

Allisha Gray — ACTIVE

Haley Jones — OUT (ankle)

Cheyenne Parker‑Tyers — OUT (knee)

Impact: Atlanta’s starting core remains intact, but frontcourt depth is thinner without Parker‑Tyers.

Golden State Valkyries

Kelsey Plum — ACTIVE

Jackie Young — ACTIVE

Cameron Brink — ACTIVE

Chelsea Gray — OUT (foot)

Monique Billings — OUT (shoulder)

Impact: Golden State’s guard rotation is stretched without Chelsea Gray, placing more playmaking responsibility on Plum and Young.

PLAYER MATCHUPS TO WATCH

Rhyne Howard (ATL) vs Jackie Young (GSV)

Howard’s two‑way dominance has been central to Atlanta’s 12–4 start. Young is one of the league’s strongest perimeter defenders and will be tasked with limiting Howard’s pull‑up game and transition scoring.

Edge: Howard (slight)

Tina Charles (ATL) vs Cameron Brink (GSV)

A fascinating veteran‑rookie matchup. Charles’ physicality and post craft challenge Brink’s elite rim protection. Brink’s length could disrupt Charles, but foul trouble is a concern.

Edge: Even

Allisha Gray (ATL) vs Kelsey Plum (GSV)

Gray’s defensive versatility will be aimed at slowing Plum, who is averaging 21+ PPG at home. Plum’s quickness and deep range can break games open.

Edge: Plum (slight)

TEAM RECORDS & RECENT FORM

Atlanta Dream (12–4)

Last 5: 4–1

Road Record: 6–3

Offensive Rating: 4th

Defensive Rating: 3rd

Trend: Playing elite basketball on both ends

Strength: Balanced scoring, perimeter defense

Weakness: Rebounding without Parker‑Tyers

Golden State Valkyries (10–7)

Last 5: 3–2

Home Record: 6–3

Offensive Rating: 6th

Defensive Rating: 9th

Trend: Strong at home; inconsistent on the road

Strength: Guard scoring + rim protection

Weakness: Turnovers and defensive rebounding

SERIES HISTORY

2025–2026: Atlanta leads 2–1

At Chase Center: Teams split 1–1

Last Meeting (2026): Dream won 88–82 behind 24 from Howard and 19 from Gray.

BETTING TRENDS

Atlanta Dream

6–2 ATS in last 8

Under is 7–3 in last 10

5–1 when holding opponents under 80

Howard averaging 23.0 PPG in last 4 road games

Golden State Valkyries

5–2 ATS in last 7 home games

Over is 6–4 in last 10

4–1 when Plum scores 25+

Valkyries are 1–4 vs teams above .600

Head‑to‑Head

Dream have covered 3 of last 4

Under has hit in 4 of last 6 matchups

GAME ODDS

Atlanta Dream                                  – 2

Golden State Valkyries                  165.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Tuesday, June 23, 2026

WNBA Game Preview: Portland Fire (8-9) vs. Chicago Sky (4-12)

Wintrust Arena, Chicago, IL

Tip‑Off: 8:00 PM ET / 7:00 PM CT

Broadcast: CBS Sports Network / WNBA League Pass

VENUE: WINTRUST ARENA

Location: 200 E Cermak Rd., Chicago, IL

Capacity: ~10,300

Court Profile: Neutral‑to‑slightly‑slow pace environment

Home‑Court Edge: Sky are 2–6 at home, struggling to generate consistent offense in Chicago.

INJURY REPORT

Portland Fire

A’ja Wilson — ACTIVE

Skylar Diggins‑Smith — ACTIVE

Sami Whitcomb — ACTIVE

Kalani Brown — OUT (ankle)

Lexie Hull — OUT (foot)

Impact: Portland’s star core is intact, but frontcourt depth is thin without Brown.

Chicago Sky

Angel Reese — ACTIVE

Marina Mabrey — ACTIVE

Dana Evans — ACTIVE

Elizabeth Williams — OUT (knee)

Isabelle Harrison — OUT (ankle)

Impact: Chicago’s interior defense is weakened without Williams, a major concern against Wilson.

PLAYER MATCHUPS TO WATCH

A’ja Wilson (POR) vs Angel Reese (CHI)

This is the marquee matchup. Wilson’s polished scoring and rim protection contrast with Reese’s relentless rebounding and physicality. Reese can disrupt possessions, but Wilson’s mid‑range and face‑up game give her the edge.

Edge: Wilson

Skylar Diggins‑Smith (POR) vs Marina Mabrey (CHI)

Diggins‑Smith is Portland’s engine, controlling pace and creating mismatches. Mabrey’s shooting can swing momentum, but she struggles defensively against elite guards.

Edge: Diggins‑Smith

Sami Whitcomb (POR) vs Dana Evans (CHI)

Whitcomb’s spacing and off‑ball movement are critical for Portland. Evans brings speed and shot creation but can be turnover‑prone.

Edge: Whitcomb (slight)

TEAM RECORDS & RECENT FORM

Portland Fire (8–9)

Last 5: 3–2

Road Record: 3–5

Offensive Rating: 6th

Defensive Rating: 8th

Trend: Playing better basketball after early‑season inconsistency

Strength: Star power + half‑court scoring

Weakness: Rebounding without Brown

Chicago Sky (4–12)

Last 5: 1–4

Home Record: 2–6

Offensive Rating: 11th

Defensive Rating: 10th

Trend: Struggling to close games; offense often stalls late

Strength: Offensive rebounding (Reese)

Weakness: Rim protection + perimeter defense

SERIES HISTORY

All‑Time (2024–2026): Portland leads 3–1

At Chicago: Portland is 2–0

Last Meeting (2026): Fire won 89–78 behind 28 from Wilson and 19 from Diggins‑Smith.

BETTING TRENDS

Portland Fire

4–1 ATS in last 5

Over is 6–3 in last 9

Fire are 5–2 when Wilson scores 25+

Portland is 3–1 ATS vs teams below .400

Chicago Sky

1–6 ATS in last 7

Under is 7–3 in last 10

Sky are 1–5 when allowing 80+ points

Chicago is 0–4 ATS in last 4 home games

Head‑to‑Head

Portland has covered 3 of last 4

Over has hit in 3 of last 4 matchups

GAME ODDS

Portland Fire                     171.5

Chicago Sky                        – 3.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Tuesday, June 23, 2026